Warden Message

Warden Message
U.S. Embassy – Burkina Faso
October 9, 2007

The U.S. Embassy is issuing this Warden Message to alert American citizens to reports that 200-300 army soldiers held a peaceful gathering on October 9th near the Armed Forces headquarters in Ouagadougou’s Central Market area to present demands for improved pension and other benefits.   

In addition, please note that on Monday, October 15, several public events are expected to take place to commemorate the 20th anniversary of President Blaise Compaore’s coming to power.  This date also coincides with the 20th anniversary of the death of the former President Thomas Sankara. 

In general, the Embassy urges U.S. citizens to exercise extreme caution in the vicinity of any protest, and if at all possible to avoid crowds, political gatherings, and demonstrations, even if they appear to be peaceful.  As noted in the consular information sheet for Burkina Faso, although demonstrations are generally peaceful, there have been several incidents of violence and destruction within recent years.

Americans living or traveling in Burkina Faso are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department’s travel registration website, https://travelregistration.state.gov, and to obtain updated information on travel and security within Burkina Faso.  Americans without Internet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.  By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency. 

The U.S. Embassy is located on Avenue John F. Kennedy and the mailing address is 01 B.P. 35, Ouagadougou.  The telephone numbers are (226) 5030-6723/24/25, Monday to Thursday (0730-1700), Friday (0730-1230); (226) 5031-2660 or 5031-2707 after hours; fax number (226) 5031-5273.  Further information on travel to Burkina Faso is also located on the embassy website at http://burkinafaso.usembassy.gov.